Nashville, TENNESSEE – According to the state officials, the amendment process includes a public comment period from July 19 to August 19.
Since the implementation of TennCare III, Governor Lee and the General Assembly have made nearly $500 million in new investments, implemented first of its kind services, and served more Tennesseans.
Officials have announced that the new investments under TennCare III include:
- Adding a dental benefit for pregnant women – $5.9M
- Extending post-partum coverage from 60 days to 1 year – $19.5M
- Beginning implementation of a new dental benefit for all TennCare adults – $75.5M
- Reducing the Employment and Community First CHOICES referral list for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities by 2,000 people – $96.2M
- Adding 1,750 Tennesseans to the CHOICES 3 program, which covers home and community-based services (HCBS) for adults with disabilities and seniors over 65 – $58.8M
- Initiating the Medicaid Health Starts program, focusing on whole-person health – $25M
- Investing in new payments to public hospitals – $82.7M
- Increasing provider rates for HCBS services – $95.3M
- Increasing provider rates for dental and behavioral health services – $28.8M
TennCare Director Stephen Smith reportedly said:
“For a year and a half, the TennCare III waiver has successfully provided the structure to enhance benefits and serve additional Tennesseans in need. We are encouraged by CMS’ continued support for the core priorities of the program, and this amendment process is an important step in solidifying the delivery of high-quality, cost-effective care to our members. These investments are a confirmation and validation of the state’s commitment upon implementation of TennCare III and an indicator of the very kinds of program improvements made possible by Tennessee’s unique approach. We look forward to working with CMS to continue meeting the goals of the program.”